Mar 05 2022

When Did Build over Agreements Become a Requirement

Build-over agreements are legal documents that are used to control any construction work over or near to a public sewer or drain. They became a requirement in the UK in 2011 under the Water Industry Act. This legislation was introduced to help prevent damage to public sewers caused by construction work, which can result in blocked pipes, sewage overflows, and other related issues.

Before the introduction of build-over agreements, construction work was carried out without consideration for the impact it may have on the public sewer network. This often resulted in damage to underground pipes and caused a significant increase in blockages and sewage overflows. As a result, the water industry regulator, Ofwat, decided to take action and introduced the build-over agreement requirement as part of a wider strategy to manage the impact that construction has on the sewer network.

When a property owner wants to carry out any construction work, such as building an extension, they need to apply for a build-over agreement. This agreement is a legal document that outlines the terms of the construction work, including how it will affect the public sewer network. It is important to note that not all construction work requires such an agreement, only that which is within a specific distance of public sewers, typically within three meters.

The build-over agreement process involves several steps. The property owner must first apply for a build-over agreement from their water company. The water company will then assess the application and issue a build-over agreement if they are satisfied that the construction work will not cause any damage or disruption to the public sewer network. If there are concerns, the water company may request further information or impose additional conditions before issuing the agreement.

Once the property owner has received the build-over agreement, they can proceed with the construction work. The agreement will contain specific requirements that must be adhered to during the construction process to ensure that the public sewer network is protected. These requirements may include specific construction methods, restrictions on the height or location of the building, or the need for additional protective measures such as waterproofing.

In conclusion, build-over agreements became a requirement in the UK in 2011 as part of the Water Industry Act to prevent damage to public sewers caused by construction work. The process involves applying for an agreement from the water company, assessing the application, and issuing the agreement before proceeding with the construction work. Following the requirements outlined in the agreement is essential to ensure the protection of the public sewer network.

Comments are closed.